A total of 200 Philippine National Police recruits took their oath of office as the newest members of Police Regional Office 4B (Mimaropa) on Monday.

Brig. Gen. Joel Doria Regional Director, PRO Mimaropa led the oath-taking on Monday at Camp BGen Efigenio C Navarro, Calapan City, Oriental Mindoro as he reminded the recruits of the value of their oath, urging them to uphold the highest principles expected of them.

"As you take this oath, you willingly accept the demanding responsibility of upholding the law, protecting the innocent, and ensuring the safety of all members of our society," said Doria.

"Cherish this opportunity to serve the people. The oath you have just taken is not a mere formality but a solemn pledge to uphold the highest standards of conduct, morality, and professionalism," he stressed.

The PNP recruits composed of 180 males and 20 females were carefully selected from 1,099 applicants through a tedious examination and screening process facilitated by the Regional Recruitment and Selection Unit Mimaropa at the start of the recruitment process for the CY 2023 Patrolman/Patrolwoman Attrition Recruitment Program.

Doria encouraged the newly minted police officers to wear their badges with respect and humility.

"I urge you to reflect on the significance of the badge you will wear. It symbolizes not only authority but also the trust of the people, and it must be worn with the utmost respect and humility," said Doria.

"Your conduct will not only reflect on yourself but on the entire PNP organization," he added.

The recruits were officially turned over to the Regional Training Center Mimaropa in Bansud, Oriental Mindoro, for the first phase of the Field Training Program, the Public Safety Basic Recruit Course, for six months.

Mimaropa is comprised of the provinces of Oriental and Occidental Mindoro, Marinduque, Romblon, and Palawan.